WestJet airline has cancelled flights due to a possible strike by some employees that could be triggered on the eve of the long holiday.
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The Alberta company justified its decision to ground its aircraft by the new strike notice issued Thursday by aircraft maintenance engineers and other technical operations employees, in the midst of the resumption of negotiations.
“As we quickly approach the July long weekend, it is particularly devastating that the strike notice we received [de l’Association Fraternelle des Mécaniciens Aéronautiques] AMFA is forcing us to start canceling flights,” lamented Diederik Pen, president of WestJet Airlines.
The cancellations affect about 25 flights, which could impact some 3,300 WestJet customers on Thursday and Friday, according to the airline, which is urging customers planning to fly in the next 48 hours to check flight status.
After the rejection of a first agreement, WestJet presented another proposal to the AMFA, while the union filed a strike notice the day after the resumption of negotiations.
The union’s threat of strike could disrupt the travel plans of more than 250,000 WestJet customers during the Canada Day long weekend.
It is perceived by the employer as “an attempt to force the conclusion of an unreasonable contract”, we can read.
“We have no choice but to remain steadfast in achieving a reasonable outcome that will protect our future and our ability to provide Canadians with essential and affordable air transportation,” added Mr. Pen, also chief operating officer of the Alberta group.
